Rick Hallihan has a vision of how a new Windows Server, Home Edition would look:
This would be a scaled back and customized version of Windows Small Business Server, running on specialized hardware, and it would simplify home networking to the point where everyone could enjoy the benefits of modern network management.
In Rick’s vision, this small device would handle e-mail for the home, provide simple centralized management of security functions (including a proxy server to help parents control Internet access for kids), do simple backups, offer remote backups as a premium option, store digital media, provide access to awesome games, and be a hub for home automation tasks. It would also update itself and all your software effortlessly. Oh, and it needs to look like a consumer electronics device and cost less than $500.
The only serious omission on the list, in my opinion is the hook to my telephone system. I’d want this device to do IP-based long distance, provide caller ID, and store voice mail for me.
I’d buy one!
(Via Scoble.)